MUMBAI: The singing competition series, The X Factor, will award the show’s winner with a record-breaking $5 million record deal – the largest guaranteed prize in television history – with Syco, a joint venture between Sony Music and Simon Cowell.
The announcement was made by US broadcaster Fox, Cowell, Sony Music and FremantleMedia North America.
The show is looking for talent young and old alike – with no upper age limit – to audition for a shot at becoming the next global music sensation. Auditions for the inaugural season of The X Factor begin on 27 March 2011 in Los Angeles at the L.A. Sports Arena. Chicago, Dallas, Miami, New York/New Jersey and Seattle will also host auditions. Specific dates and venues will be announced.
Cowell said, “I like the idea that a 12-year-old on this show can compete with an older singer and a singing group. I’ve never believed there should be a cut-off age for talent, and we are going to put our money where our mouths are with the $5 million recording contract. I’m doing this show in America because I genuinely believe we can find a superstar.”
Sony chairman, CEO and president Sir Howard Stringer said, “I have always been proud of the achievements of The X Factor worldwide, and am looking forward to its American launch. I have no doubt The X FACTOR will find winners worthy of international acclaim and career longevity, and believe with Sony’s worldwide effort, the winners’ potential can be unlimited.”
“The X Factor has become a worldwide phenomenon and is unlike anything we’ve seen in America,” said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. “The British version is wildly entertaining, but also has a penchant for stirring up controversy. You never know what Simon has up his sleeve, and since he will be working both behind and in front of the camera, the country should brace itself to expect the unexpected.”
FremantleMedia North America CEO Cecile Frot-Coutaz said, “Since its UK debut in 2004, The X Factor has proven itself a global success story in numerous territories worldwide. Now, as we bring this widely popular format to US audiences, I look forward to building a new franchise for a new decade with the return of the inimitable Simon Cowell.”
The show’s judges will travel the nation searching for undiscovered talent 12 years old or over – both solo artists and vocal groups – who are willing to brave the panel for a chance to make their dreams come true. In a departure from other singing competition series, the first time a contestant auditions for the judges, he/she will do so in front of an audience of thousands – raising the stakes and increasing the pressure to impress not only the judges, but also a potential legion of fans. This will be the ultimate test to prove they have the vocal ability, charisma and stage presence that it takes to become a global superstar and win a $5 million recording contract with Syco/Sony Music.
In the coming weeks, The X Factor host and judges panel will be unveiled and announcements will be made about audition opportunities that will give everyone 12 or over in America – no matter where they live – the chance to show that they’ve got it. There also will be reveals of unprecedented initiatives.
As previously announced, Pepsi will serve as an official sponsor of The X Factor. The sponsorship includes a multi-platform off-air marketing partnership; weekly in-show integrations and placements; and an immersive content experience online.